Fight to save Edwardian house intensifies

The fight to save one of two 'twin' Edwardian homes from demolition has taken a new turn.

Campaigners were jubilant in December when Royal Borough planning councillors threw out a plan by Berkeley Homes to flatten Essex Lodge on the corner of Osborne Road and Bolton Avenue, putting a four storey apartment block in its place. Cabinet member Cllr Phill Bicknell described the design of the proposed new block as looking like the inside of a cardboard box, while colleagues felt it was too domineering and tall.

Councillors asked the developers to submit a new plan.

But now the developers have decided to stick with their existing plan, appealing against the councillors' decision. A public inquired chaired by a government inspector will take place at the Guildhall on June 19.

Essex Lodge does not benefit from a conservation order as does Kings House on the opposite corner, which is of the same era and similar design representing the Edwardian phase of Windsor development.

But past chairman of the Boltons Residents Association Olive Eccles said: "It is of heritage significance and  Its loss would damage the character of the area.

"The design of the proposed flats is totally inappropriate and  has nothing to link it to the area.  The building materials are totally unsuitable and a five storey building would overlook nearby houses."

It is also feared by residents that it would cause parking problems and threaten trees.